Do I Need to Buy a New Computer?
While not required, most students find it practical to have a personal computer. If you need access to a computer, we have computer labs across campus. If you're considering a new purchase, we recommend Apple or Dell for their reliability:
If you bring a computer you already own, here are the recommended minimum specs:
- Processor: Apple M3/M4 or Intel Core i3/i5/i7
- RAM: 8GB or more
- Storage: 256GB (or larger) Solid State Drive (SSD)
Along with the computer itself, we recommend the following peripherals:
- Headphones/Earbuds with a built-in microphone
- Webcam (unless already built in to your laptop)
- External hard drive (for backup)
Software Provided by Williams
Your Williams account gives you access to a wide range of software, applications, and resources. You don't need to install these now; your professors will let you know if they’re needed for a course.
Application |
What It's For |
How to Access |
Google Workspace |
Email, file storage, and collaboration tools. |
Included with your Williams account. Access online at drive.google.com. |
Microsoft 365 |
“Productivity”: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. |
Instructions for installing Microsoft 365. |
Zoom |
Video conferencing for classes and meetings. |
Included with your Williams account: williams.zoom.us |
Panopto |
Recording presentations and screencasts. |
Access through GLOW courses, under “Course Media Gallery.” |
Specialized Academic Software |
Tools like Endnote, Stata, MATLAB, Mathematica, Chemdraw, SPSS, etc. |
Your professors will provide guidance if these are needed for a course |
Hardware Support
OIT does not repair personal devices, but our Student Technology Consultants (STCs) in Jesup Hall can help with software issues. If your computer has a hardware problem, we can recommend local repair vendors. For short-term needs, the Equipment Loan Center offers Chromebooks and laptops for multi-day checkouts.